Nutrition during weaning of dog puppies
Weaning is the time when puppies begin to eat other types of food in addition to their mother's milk. And here comes the problem: what is the correct diet during weaning of dog puppies? We will explain it to you in this article, along with some advice on the best kibble!
Weaning puppies is a very delicate phase of growth, which must be managed with the right methods and times. From this point of view, the choice of food is fundamental: an incorrect diet could in fact cause future food intolerances and gastrointestinal problems in puppies, with further risks linked to the production of excess milk and mastitis in the mother .
When does weaning begin in a puppy?
Weaning a puppy usually begins around 3-4 weeks of age and continues until 6-8 weeks of life , when the first teeth begin to appear. Generally, it is the mother herself who facilitates weaning during this phase, as soon as the puppies are able to chew their first solid foods.
During this period, the puppy begins to eat solid foods in addition to mother's milk, gradually introducing nutrients useful for growth. The transition to solid foods must be gradual , introducing soft and easily digestible foods in the first phase.
As your puppy grows, you can gradually increase the consistency of the food. It is important to consult your veterinarian about choosing the best food for weaning your dog, taking into account his nutritional needs and development. In this regard, choosing special kibble for weaning puppies can be a great idea if your dog is ready.
How do I choose food during weaning?
Gradually, feedings become less frequent and it is up to us to gradually integrate the puppies' meals with foods such as minced meat softened in water, baby food or puppy food soaked in a little warm water (never use cow's milk!). Even kibble can become a valuable nutrient in these early stages, as long as it is adequately soaked and made chewable.
In general, pay particular attention to the consistency of the food you offer your puppy: it is essential that the foods are well assimilated, especially during the very first stages of transition to a solid diet.
It is important that we supplement the diet during weaning of dog puppies with foods that contain the right amount of nutrients for the growth of the animals such as:
- prebiotics
- choline chloride
- linseed and salmon oil
- mineral salts and proteins
One way to integrate these nutrients without too much effort is to purchase special kibble for weaning puppies, which can combine these elements without giving up a necessary dose of flavors.
One thing to watch out for
During weaning, members of the same litter begin to eat from the same bowl, developing the pack spirit, but also a competition from which they will learn to feed themselves. It is from this moment that we must make sure that all the puppies eat enough.
Weaning kibble: the definitive solution
The adoption of specific kibbles is in many cases the ideal solution to outline a balanced diet for a weaning dog. The reasons are many and include for example:
- Presence of essential nutrients : The puppy kibble is formulated to combine all the essential nutrients for the healthy growth of the puppy in a single product, such as high-quality proteins, fats, vitamins and minerals. Thanks to the balance of nutrients, the kibble supports the optimal development of the immune system, the growth of bones and muscles and the general health of the puppy;
- Superior taste and quality : the choice of high-quality kibble allows us to offer particularly tasty meals for puppies, through mixes of ingredients designed to enhance unique flavours;
- Ease of preparation : Unlike other types of foods, kibble is ready to use and requires no additional preparation, making weaning puppies simple and time-saving.
And after weaning? Aldog® will take care of it!
Post-weaning nutrition for puppies is a delicate and fundamental phase to ensure balanced and healthy growth . To accompany puppies from 2 to 12 months of age , Aldog® has developed a line of specific products that offers everything your four-legged friend needs:
Aldog® Puppy & Junior Pork
Aldog® Puppy & Junior Pork : An ideal solution for a complete and balanced diet based on pork , designed to support the muscle development and energy needs of the puppy.
Aldog® Puppy & Junior Lamb
Aldog® Puppy & Junior Lamb : Formulated for dogs with particular food sensitivities, this lamb-based product is highly digestible , promotes intestinal well-being and supports the immune system.
Aldog® Puppy & Junior Arctic
Aldog® Puppy & Junior Artica : A fish-based alternative, rich in Omega 3 and 6 , ideal for promoting harmonious growth and ensuring a shiny coat and healthy skin.
Each Aldog® product is made with high-quality natural ingredients and specifically designed to follow the nutrition of puppies after weaning, ensuring a complete nutritional intake at every stage of their growth.
How to introduce puppies to kibble
Introducing kibble to your puppy’s diet may require patience and some specific strategies, especially in the first few weeks of weaning.
Don't give up though! There are several things you can try, including:
- Moisten the kibble : softening the kibble with warm water or broth can make it easier to chew, making it more digestible;
- Gradual portioning : start with small amounts of kibble, gradually increasing the proportion until your four-legged friend is completely accustomed;
Choose the right flavors : try to understand the tastes that your dog likes the most. Offering puppy weaning kibble with the right flavors can help your pet get used to the new diet, contributing significantly to weaning;- Establish regular meal times : Establishing regular meal times can help your puppy get used to the new food, as well as getting solid meals on a regular basis;
- Separate puppies from their mother (just for a few hours!) : this trick can help make puppies independent, encouraging them to discover new foods (without overdoing it!).
These methods can make the transition to a kibble diet more enjoyable and less stressful for you and your puppy.
Some useful recommendations
Also remember to take into account a number of additional factors, including:
- A veterinarian's opinion : Before making any changes to your puppy's diet during weaning, always consult your veterinarian. An expert's opinion can never hurt, especially during such a delicate phase of growth;
- Your Puppy’s Specific Needs : Some puppies may have special dietary needs due to food allergies or sensitivities, or simply have fussy tastes!
- Trusted retailers or brands : choose foods from trusted and well-known brands in the industry, which produce specific lines of kibble for weaning dogs. These brands tend to invest in research and development, ensuring nutritionally balanced and high-quality formulas.
